Demand National Institutes of Health Funding for Celiac Disease Research

Urge your Members of Congress to demand recognition by the National Institutes of Health for federal research grants for celiac disease!

Celiac disease is one of the world's most common genetic autoimmune diseases, affecting 1% of the population worldwide, including three million Americans, yet it is one of the least diagnosed. Approximately 80% of patients with celiac disease are undiagnosed and suffering needlessly. For decades, we have been told that there was no need for a cure - that strict adherence to a gluten-free diet would solve all of our issues. For decades, what we were told was wrong. Current research shows that at least 30% of people with celiac disease on a strict, gluten-free diet are still unwell, putting them at greater risk for serious health complications. We need treatments, and a cure.

It is almost impossible to overstate the importance of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in funding biomedical research. NIH is a major funder, with an annual budget in excess of $30 billion, and no line item for celiac disease. Federal research grants will allow researchers to advance treatments, drive diagnosis, and find a cure for celiac disease. Together, we must work to make our voices heard to elevate celiac disease on the nation’s healthcare agenda.

We just need a few pieces of information to connect you with your Members of Congress.